Podcast by Mr Baugh
29 April 2026
In the second episode on minor characters in Macbeth, we turn our attention to Banquo, Macbeth's foil and moral counterpoint. However, is Banquo as straightforward as he first appears? Are there criticisms we can make of Banquo, especially around moral inaction? From his first meeting of the witches, to his ghostly reappearance at the banquet, listen to this episode to learn all you need to know about Banquo ahead of your exam on the 11th May!
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13:15
29 April 2026
This is the first in a series of three short episodes on the 'minor' (but still very important!) characters in Macbeth. We're starting with Macduff, the man responsible for Macbeth's death at the very end of the play, but who plays a subtly important role throughout. The episode covers a series of key quotations, along with detailed analytical comment and links back to the play's central themes of ambition, deception, morality and masculinity.
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13:19
22 April 2026
This episode explores Golding’s central message that human beings possess an innate capacity for evil and that civilisation is fragile. We examine how the island functions as a “laboratory” to test human nature, tracking the breakdown of order through symbols like the fire and the conch, and the rise of savagery through Jack’s leadership. We analyse the Beast as a representation of internal human darkness, before considering the ending, where Ralph’s “loss of innocence” reveals a deeper realisation about humanity - one that carries a profound emotional and psychological cost.
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14:15
22 April 2026
This episode explores Dickens’ central messages, focusing on social responsibility, poverty, and inequality. We track Scrooge’s transformation through key quotations, analyse how Dickens uses Christmas as a symbol of generosity and reflection, and examine characters like the Cratchits, Tiny Tim, and the allegorical figures of Ignorance and Want. The episode shows how Dickens combines emotional storytelling with a clear moral purpose, ultimately arguing that compassion, human connection, and personal change can transform both individuals and society.
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11:51
21 April 2026
In this episode, we explore what Macbeth is really saying about human nature, power, and morality.
Key Ideas:
Core Message:
Shakespeare warns that the real danger lies not in fate or the supernatural, but in human beings’ capacity for moral corruption when ambition overrides conscience.
Key Quotes From the Episode:
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11:08
27 March 2026
In this special episode of Study Sessions, we briefly recap the plot of Northern Lights and look ahead of the remaining two books in Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy: The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass. Listen to this episode, reinforce your understanding of Book 1 and come back after our Easter break ready to take out a copy of The Subtle Knife from our wonderful school library!
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08:15